Choosing a guardian/conservator is an important decision, especially if you have minor children or dependents. Delaying this decision can lead to complications and uncertainties that can affect your loved ones' futures. Here are some reasons why you should not wait to...
Guardianship
How does guardianship & conservatorship impact a ward’s rights?
Watching a parent age is often difficult, and it may prove even more so if that parent is experiencing notable cognitive decline. When an older adult living in Washington starts to become unable to effectively manage his or her own affairs, guardianship and...
How can you limit a guardianship?
As your parents have gotten older, you have probably observed that they are less able to tackle personal financial matters, perhaps due to memory issues or other cognitive problems. You may believe that at some point you will have to ask a court to approve a...
What does it mean to sue or contest a trust?
Whoever you select to oversee your trust will owe a fiduciary duty to the beneficiaries of your trust. Hopefully, your trustee will not encounter any legal issues while administering your trust. Still, sometimes a trustee cannot avoid a date in court. Smart Asset...
What should you consider when naming guardians for your children?
Knowing that if something happens to you, your children have loving and committed people to parent them can bring you peace of mind. Finding people who are the right fit to take on such a serious responsibility can cause some angst. When you know some strategies for...
Seeking guardianship of your aging parents
Watching your parents age can bring bittersweet moments and feelings of concern about their well-being. When their health reaches a point where you feel worried about their ability to safely care for themselves, you may consider acting as a guardian for them. The role...
When should you file for guardianship of an elder?
While you may want to encourage and support your parents' wishes to remain independent, questionable decisions or conduct may have you feeling concerned. As your parents age, deterioration of their health may impact their ability to make coherent and responsible...
Guardianship — a major decision
Guardianship is a powerful legal relationship. In terms of elder law, you would probably establish a guardianship to make decisions for parents or grandparents who can no longer manage their own affairs. There are a number of questions that you might ask yourself —...